THE CENTRAL COAST‘S MOST TRUSTED NEWS SOURCE FOR OVER 30 YEARS Print Post Approved – PP100001854 Published monthly (except January) June 2025 1990 EST Big win for Stevens and Brand Group as L&E Court approves Kariong development Urban Property Group tops out The Waterfront at Central Coast Quarter Infrastructure investment takes centre stage at Central Coast Economic Breakfast University announces courses to be taught at new Gosford Campus Top price for Legacy’s Gosford waterfront site Page 4 – Edgar Adams’ Editorial Council continues to waste time at Land and Environment Court
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3 4 Edgar Adams’ Editorial Council continues to waste time at Land and Environment Court 5 Big win for Stevens and Brand Group as L&E Court approves Kariong development 6 Infrastructure investment takes centre stage at Central Coast Economic Breakfast 7 Gosford Gold Cup draws big crowd 8 University announces courses to be taught at new Gosford Campus 9 Urban Property Group tops out The Waterfront at Central Coast Quarter 10 Italian restaurateur sees future in Gosford 10 Central Coast Mariners announce Craig Brownlow as CEO 10 New networking group for Central Coast 11 Pretty Beach House and The Bells at Killcare named Australia’s Top Luxury Getaways 11 Coast loses major operator for Warnervale Airport 12 CCIC members hear Elecbrakes innovation journey 13 Time to restore Central Coast Development Corporation 13 Chamber continues to advocate for new TAFE 13 Tony Mylan appointed Director Gosford Erina Business Chamber 14 Obituary – Vale Laurie Maher OAM 15 Top price for Legacy’s Gosford waterfront site 16 North Gosford development site with income stream sold 17 Property sales and leasings 19 Funny business CONTENTS Phone 02 4367 0733 Email info@ccbusinessreview.com.au Web www.ccbusinessreview.com.au CONTACT In this issue Central Coast Business Review is a Registered Trade Mark of Adams Business Publications Pty Ltd P.O. Box 3259, Erina, NSW 2250 Phone: (02) 4367 0733 Fax: (02) 4367 0744 Email: info@ccbusinessreview.com.au Print & Distribution by Bromley Direct ph 0412 439 773 © Adams Business Publications 1994. All rights reserved. Reproductions in any part prohibited. While every effort has been made to ensure all information in this magazine is accurate, no responsibility will be accepted by the publisher, Adams Business Publications. The producer accepts no responsibility for illustrations or photographs supplied by organisations or individuals and/or typographical errors. Central Coast Business Review Readership 20,000+ DISTRIBUTION GUARANTEED VIA AUSTRALIA POST CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
4 We understand that the newly elected council has its hands tied in respect to management due to a Regulation brought in by the Minister prior to the last election, this expires in September. After that the CEO has to be held totally to account by the Councillors. Failure to address this issue will make them equally to blame for the outcomes that the community has had to endure for the past ten years. Meanwhile CCBR understands that following the resignation of the Environment and Planning Director after being in the job for only three days the person who it appears should have got the job in the first place has been appointed and will commence in mid June. Mr Nicholls has over 25 years as an expert urban and regional planner and executive leader of both private and public sector organisations. Luke has held CEO and Chief Planner roles in local government and has been a principal of a national urban planning and economics firm. The previous appointment, chosen by the CEO David Farmer, was an environmentalist. IN THIS ISSUE we highlight a big win in the Land and Environment Court against Central Coast Council by the Stevens Group and Brand Group to develop 3 restaurants on land at Mount Penang Parklands This development has been dragging on for almost ten years with Council pulling out every trick in the book to stop it. See story on Page 5 and my Editor’s comment at the end. And then as we got to the end of the month the Stevens Group had a massive win with their development at Mardi that has been dragging on for almost 20 years. Full report on that next month. However, the point about this is Council’s habitual delaying tactics with Development Applications. At present the Department of Planning’s Development Application Assessment Performance table when compared with other councils is worth noting. However, when compared with our neighbouring council Lake Macquarie it says it all: Average Assessment Days: Central Coast 163 days Lake Macquarie 101 days Total Development Cost Central Coast $536.2 million Lake Macquarie $542.9 However, that is not the whole story. What council has been doing for some time is refusing to accept development applications in the first place due to the most trivial of reasons. This keeps them off the books. In other words they are playing games. When quizzed about this Council’s CEO complains of a lack of staff. What he is not telling us though is how much time is wasted with Council’s planning staff being tied up with cases before the Land and Environment Court, most of which they lose. In April and May this year there were eight cases before the Court. Before getting to court there is always numerous hearings and submissions involving barristers representing both the developer and council and this means more staff time. The bottom line with all this is that apart from enormous legal costs that council incurs pushing their spurious arguments it also costs the applicant, whether they be a developer or a builder or any other business untold lost time and money. One particular builder told CCBR that a simple factory on an industrial block took over fifteen months to get the DA through and by that time building costs had escalated so much that his customer, a small manufacturer, didn’t have the extra funds to proceed. And, this is the point. While this Council goes to all lengths to use specious environmental arguments to protect so-called threatened or endangered species, the economic impact on our region is enormous. The development and building industries in particular and all the businesses they support are suffering as well. The lost jobs alone is immense. Instead of a thriving regional economy the Central Coast economy is struggling. EDITORIAL Edgar Adams discusses local issues We’ll handle it from here • Major supplier of architectural hardware to the residential and commercial market • Door locks, handles, security and more • Consultation service available • Working closely with direct clients, builders, architects and interior designers • Visit our showroom today! Avoca Beach Architectural Hardware & Locksmiths www.avocaarchitectural.com.au 4382 1286 0412 437 327 177 Avoca Dr, Avoca Beach info@avocaarchitectural.com.au Edgar Adams Editor Council continues to waste time at Land and Environment Court CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
5 BUSINESS NEWS THE LAND AND Environment Court has overruled a Central Coast Council refusal for a restaurant development at Kariong that will see a McDonalds, KFC and Guzman & Gomez restaurants operating on the site by the end of 2026. The development has been approved on land identified by Central Coast Council as the “Highway Commercial Precinct” on the Central Coast Highway at Kariong and will be undertaken by local developers Stevens Group and the Brand Group. Stevens Group and the Brand Group acquired the site from the State Government following a lengthy tender process that commenced well over a decade ago and included fast food as part of a masterplan considered by the Government during the process. The development was approved by the Land and Environment Court (LEC) after originally being refused by the Central Coast Local Planning Panel in November 2023. It had been referred to the Panel after 88 submissions were received by Central Coast Council, 86 of them objecting to the proposal, with a recommendation for refusal from the Council. But on May 2, LEC Commissioner Danielle Dickson upheld an appeal by Parklands Kariong Development Pty Ltd following conciliation meetings between the developer and Council. In upholding the appeal, Commissioner Dickson granted approval for a four-lot subdivision at the entry to the parklands to house three fast-food outlets – McDonald’s, KFC and Guzman y Gomez (GYG). The approval also encompasses associated external roadworks, earthworks, tree removal, landscaping, stormwater infrastructure and services, carparking and signage at 5 The Avenue. Roadworks will include construction of a new left-in (only) entry road (right of carriageway) and deceleration lane to the Central Coast Hwy and a second internal road (right of carriageway) for the three proposed food and drink premises. The McDonald’s restaurant will be on Lot 2 with a total gross floor area (GFA) CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 of 380sqm, 38 car spaces and two drivethrough bays. KFC will be on Lot 3 with a GFA of 272sqm, 32 car spaces and two drivethrough bays. GYG will be on Lot 4 with a GFA of 277sqm, 28 car spaces and two drivethrough bays. The decision follows a conciliation conference organised by the court between Council and the developer, which was held on November 4, 2024. The development has been located to preserve a large group of scribbly gum trees that exist on the frontage of the site. Big win for Stevens and Brand Group as L&E Court approves Kariong development Big enough to deliver yet small enough to care, our team of accredited, experienced senior lawyers are true experts in their fields of law. Professional, practical and passionate, we’ve been trusted by the Central Coast for generations. YOUR LEGAL LIFE PARTNERS AUBREYBROWN.COM.AU Image showing proposed restaurant precinct at Kariong CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
6 Delivering Technology Solutions www.ccts.com.au 1800 244 244 Expert support, competitive pricing & same-day service - all in one place. The Coast’s ONLY Full-Service Technology Provider Get a same-day, obligation-free quote, and if you switch to CCTS, your first month is FREE – just mention this ad! CCBR Readers Offer: OVER 300 BUSINESS and government leaders registered for the 2025 Business NSW Central Coast Economic Breakfast held at Mingara Club on May 23rd, reaffirming the region’s commitment to tackling infrastructure, housing, and productivity challenges through strategic collaboration and bold investment. Held in partnership with Commonwealth Bank and the University of Newcastle at Mingara Recreation Club, the sold-out event featured speakers, including the NSW Treasurer, the Hon. Daniel Mookhey MLC; Minister for the Central Coast, the Hon. David Harris MP; Commonwealth Bank Senior Economist Belinda Allen; and Business NSW Chief Economist Dr Sherman Chan. The centrepiece of the event was the official launch of the Central Coast Infrastructure Investment Guide 2025–2030, developed by the Central Coast Peak Bodies Alliance — a coalition of Business NSW, Regional Development Australia Central Coast, Central Coast Industry Connect, the Urban Development Institute of Australia (NSW), and the Property Council of Australia. “This guide is a clear call to action for government and the private sector to commit to the critical infrastructure that will drive housing supply, jobs, and regional prosperity,” said Scott Goold, Business NSW Regional Director. “The Central Coast is united in its vision — we stand ready to partner with industry and all levels of government to deliver on this opportunity.” Replacement to improve transport flow and safety • Gosford Station Masterplan to improve connectivity with the University and health precinct Together, these projects could unlock over 9,000 new homes and thousands of local jobs, helping meet the Central Coast’s Housing Accord targets and $35 billion economic growth forecast by 2040. Attendees heard from the Treasurer on the importance of enabling infrastructure and the potential for private sector investThe Infrastructure Guide outlines catalytic projects such as the Gosford Waterfront redevelopment, Sparks Road intersection upgrades, and the Bushell’s Ridge Intermodal Transport Hub. It also includes: • Pacific Highway intersection improvements to support 6,000+ new dwellings • Water and sewer upgrades at Gwandalan and Charmhaven to unlock residential land • The Central Coast Regional Sporting Complex expansion to boost tourism and recreation • Rawson Road Level Crossing BUSINESS NEWS Infrastructure investment takes centre stage at Central Coast Economic Breakfast NSW Treasurer The Hon. Daniel Mookhey MLC addressing the 2025 Business NSW Central Coast Breakfast audience Funding for Growth Panel Discussion with Treasurer Daniel Mookhey, NSW Business Chamber Chief Economist Dr Sharman Chan, Clr John McNamara, Tom Roche CEO Pariter CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
7 ment in unlocking housing and employment land. “It’s clear that regions like the Central Coast need tailored funding models to unlock growth,”Treasurer Mookhey said during the infrastructure panel. “We must work together to ensure enabling infrastructure isn’t a bottleneck to economic opportunity.” Minister Harris formally opened the event, reaffirming the NSW Government’s support for the Central Coast and praising the region’s collaborative approach. Economists Belinda Allen and Dr Sherman Chan provided expert analysis of national and local economic trends, with encouraging signs for the economy, tempered by warnings about productivity and housing pressures. “Businesses cannot expand, and new industries cannot grow without the right infrastructure,” said Dr Chan. “We need to ensure regions like the Central Coast are equipped to meet population growth while maintaining affordability and liveability.” Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO of the University of Newcastle also addressed the audience, sharing insights into the University’s regional partnerships and educational investments, including its new Central Coast-based initiatives in dentistry and health. The event was supported by major partners Commonwealth Bank and the University of Newcastle, whose contributions help make this marquee regional event possible. BUSINESS NEWS This year’s Coast Race Day held on 10th May saw a crowd of almost 3,000. Held at The Entertainment Grounds, home of the Gosford Race Club, the Coast Race Day is the richest on the calendar with $2 million in prize money. With a full programme of ten races and live entertainment the Central Coast’s richest race day is one of the most popular days for the Club which hold 23 race meetings each year and employs over a hundred staff on the day and a large number of people lead up to and after day CEO Daniel Lacey said, “Coast Race Day provides Gosford and the Central Coast with great exposure with many attendees staying overnight and enjoying local restaurants and tourist activities. Gosford is also given exposure on Channel 7.” “We also make use of local suppliers and local sponsors, such as Gosford IT, Ortus Financial, Railway Hotel Gosford and our Gosford Gold Cup Sponsor Guardian Safety Solutions. “As this is a metro race meeting we also attract high quality trainers who come for Coast Race Day.”“Some of these trainers include: Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, Bjorn Baker, Chris Waller and Annabel and Rob Archibald,” he said. Following the last race celebrations continued with an unforgettable afterparty with DJ Havana Brown and Natalie Sax that kept going well into the evening. Gosford Gold Cup draws big crowd Gosford Race Club Chairman, Michael Cusick (right) with winner Les Vampire and owners CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
8 THE UNIVERSITY OF Newcastle has today announced Education, Social Science, Business, and Pathway programs will be taught at the new Mann Street site in the heart of Gosford from next year, as the first stage of program announcements for the new facility. Today’s announcement outlines which courses of the existing offerings on the Coast will be delivered from the University of Newcastle’s sites at Ourimbah, Gosford and at the Central Coast Clinical School. New courses across the three locations will be announced next month as the Stage 2 of the exciting announcements ahead of the University’s new state-of-the-art facility being opened at Mann Street. Around 1,300 people are expected to study at the new Mann Street location next year. Professor Zelinsky explained the decisions for the program offerings were developed following thorough consultation, which showed the potential for the University to address key skills shortages in the region. “We want our University to be part of the community, so we met with more than 700 people from local businesses, government, schools and student groups to ensure the programs we teach on the Central Coast meet the specific needs of the Central Coast,” Professor Zelinsky said. “The consultation showed us that we can help address skills shortages and support future growth in key industries like business, education, IT and social services – so that’s exactly what we’ll be doing from the new location. “It’s exciting to confirm 10 undergraduate degrees, five diplomas as well as our Pathways Program as the first group of courses we know will be delivered at our new facility in Gosford. “This is Stage 1 of program announcements and next month we’ll be sharing details of the new offerings across our three locations and boost options for people living on the Coast to study locally with us.” “We will also continue our strong advocacy for a dental school for the Central Coast and will be hoping to secure support for this vision with the new government.” The new four-storey facility at 305 Mann Street is within 450 metres from the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Clinical School and close to Gosford train station, making it a central and accessible location for students. University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said the new building symbolised a significant commitment to the Central Coast region from the University. “The new Gosford location provides a great opportunity for our students. They’ll be studying in a brand-new, purpose-built, facility in the heart of Gosford, close to public transport, industry and work opportunities,” Professor Zelinsky said. “Our University celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025 and this is our largest investment since we built NUspace. Alongside our Ourimbah site and the Central Coast Clinical School and Research Institute, this new Mann Street location will increase our presence in the Gosford CBD and strengthen our commitment to the Central Coast. BUSINESS NEWS “We want more people to be able to study at university right here on the Central Coast and this new facility is a big step forward in achieving that vision.” The new facility in Gosford is funded by the University of Newcastle, the Australian Government, and the NSW Government, with land provided by the NSW Government’s Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation. The below programs are the first set of offerings to be available from semester one 2026, with students able to apply for these courses from June. More information is available at newcastle.edu.au Meanwhile, the University of Newcastle has won state significant development status for its $80 million, 13-storey student accommodation plans next to the campus in Hills Street. The project would provide 190 beds across studio units and shared apartments, plus ground-level recreation facilities and a rooftop terrace. According to development documents, the university building would complement the neighbouring. The project is now awaiting SEARs for Environmental Impact Statement preparation. Programs to be offered at the new facility in Gosford will include undergraduate, diploma and honours programs: • Programs to be offered from Mann Street: • Bachelor of Business • Bachelor of Business/ Bachelor Commerce • Bachelor of Commerce • Bachelor of Education (Primary) • Bachelor of Education (Primary) (Honours) • Bachelor of Education (Secondary) • Bachelor of Education (Secondary) (Hon) • Bachelor of Social Science • Bachelor Social Science (Honours) • Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) • Diploma in Arts and Social Science • Diploma in Business • Diploma in Environmental Science* • Diploma in Science* University announces courses to be taught new Gosford Campus Central Coast Campus is expected to be finished by September (Photo taken 30th May 2025) CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
9 URBAN PROPERTY GROUP has marked a significant milestone in the delivery of Central Coast Quarter, with the structural completion of its first tower, The Waterfront, now officially topped out. Located in the heart of Gosford and overlooking Brisbane Water, the 21-storey building, The Waterfront will deliver 134 high-quality apartments above a new retail precinct, redefining the gateway to the Central Coast and setting a new benchmark for mixed-use development in the region. Conceived by St Hilliers, the site was acquired by Urban Property Group in 2024. In less than 12 months, Urban has reenergised the project and driven construction through to structural completion, bringing fresh momentum, design excellence, and delivery assurance to this landmark development. “This is Urban’s first project on the Central Coast, and it’s also the tallest and most ambitious we’ve delivered to date,” said Patrick Elias, CEO Of Urban Property Group. “To reach this milestone is not only a technical achievement, it’s a reflection of our growth as a business and our commitment to creating lasting, high-quality communities.” The topping-out ceremony brought together key partners and stakeholders from the Council, government, industry, and the community, with the traditional hoisting of the tree marking this important rite of passage in the project’s life. Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said that The Waterfront at Central Coast Quarter will provide new options as the population grows. “Heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved in reaching such an important stage in this project,” Mayor McKinna said. “Gosford City is the heart of the Central Coast, and this project will provide not just homes, but a whole new community, for people who want to live near beautiful Brisbane Waters,” he said. “We look forward to seeing the vision fully brought to life later this year.” Urban Property Group, an iCIRT-rated and award-winning Australian developerbuilder, is delivering The Waterfront as the first of three towers in the Central Coast Quarter precinct, which has been designed in collaboration with leading architecture firm DKO. Set to deliver much-needed housing supply, employment opportunities and renewed confidence in the region, the project is being celebrated as a catalyst for Gosford’s next chapter. “In one of the most challenging periods in recent construction history, it’s testament to the strength and capability of our team that we’ve kept this critical project moving,” said Patrick Elias. “We’re proud to be delivering this stage, and proud to be part of the Central Coast’s future.” Completion of The Waterfront is scheduled for Q4 2025. BUSINESS NEWS salvationarmy.org.au Urban Property Group tops out The Waterfront at Central Coast Quarter Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna (centre) with Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias, COO Mark Elias and John Brogden AM Chair Urban Property Group Advisory Board Construction of Urban Property Group’s The Waterfront project topped out in late May CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
10 Italian restaurateur Matteo Piccardi has opened Il Toscano an artisan Italian pasta restaurant in William Plaza Gosford. This is his third restaurant on the Coast after opening his first in Long Jetty in 2022 and in Terrigal in 2024 both of which have proved to be highly successful and highly popular. With twenty years experience in hospitality in Italy Mr Piccardi came to Australia eleven years ago for a holiday and decided to stay. His first venture was to establish a boutique tour business, A Taste of Tuscany with Matteo Piccardi, taking small groups on guided tours through Tuscany where he grew up and treating them to the history, culture, food and wine of the region. Between tours he worked in an Italian restaurant in Sydney he moved to the Central Coast and started a home business making Italian meals for home delivery which became popular during the covid lockdown. The new Gosford restaurant seats OOOO and is fitted out to reflect a true Italian Tuscan vibe offering quality authentic dishes from his home town with genuine Italian style service. Mr Piccardi told CCBR that with all the new residential developments now nearing completion in Gosford he believes there is an opportunity TO create a new quality food offering in the CBD. BUSINESS BRIEFS Greg Brownlow The Central Coast Mariners has announced the appointment of Greg Brownlow as the club’s new Chief Executive Officer. Mr Brownlow is also the Business and Strategic Partnerships Manager at Central Coast Sports College, a role which he has held since it was established in 2013. He has played a fundamental role in the success of the College, which now educates over 1,000 student athletes, including numerous current Mariners. He will continue to maintain his current position at the Central Coast Sports College, alongside his role as CEO at the Mariners. He is a Director of the Gosford Erina Business Chamber. He was appointment as GM of Operations at the Mariners earlier this year created a collaboration between the Mariners and Central Coast Sports College, something which he will continue to grow and develop in his role as CEO. Further to this announcement, David Slade has also been appointed as the club’s Co-Chairman in a voluntary capacity, where he will be working closely with Owner Mike Charlesworth. Matteo Piccardi at Il Toscano Gosford Italian restaurateur sees future in Gosford Local leadership coach and podcast host, Brendan Rogers, has established The Local Link a free community helping Central Coast business owners and leaders grow themselves, their teams, and their businesses — together. Mr Rogers says that In a post-pandemic business landscape marked by uncertainty, burnout, and increased competition, one thing is clear: connection matters more than ever. Enter The Local Link — the Central Coast’s newest business community that’s flipping the traditional networking model on its head. “If you’re a business owner or leader in the region, it’s something you can’t afford to ignore, he said. The Local Link is a free, private online community designed specifically for business owners, leaders, and ambitious professionals who want real growth. “The Local Link different. It’s not just another Facebook group or coffee club. It’s a movement grounded in meaningful support, high-impact conversations, and leadership development,” said Mr Rogers. Weekly engagement activities — such as Mindset Fuel, Real Conversations, Bold Asks, and Linker Spotlights — drive participation and value. Members aren’t just showing up to be seen; they’re showing up to grow, learn, and support each other. “The goal was never just about more networking. It’s about creating a trusted space where local leaders can connect, grow, and get better — together.” The Local Link is built on a simple yet powerful truth: Business owners and leaders thrive in community, not isolation. After nearly a decade co-leading the success of LinkedInLocal Central Coast, Mr Rogers saw firsthand what made community valuable — and what was missing. “People crave real conversations. They’re tired of transactional networking and want places where they can be themselves, ask for help, and find genuine support from people who get it,” he said New networking group for Central Coast Brendan Rogers Central Coast Mariners announce Greg Brownlow as CEO CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
11 Central Coast Council has succeeded in driving another major business from the Central Coast. On this occasion a combination of political point scoring and incompetent council staff have driven Nighthawk Aviation to locate to Essendon Airport in Victoria when their preference was Central Coast Airport at Warnervale. Nighthawk who has been operating out of Cessnock Airport for a number of years has outgrown Cessnock’s capacity to allow for expansion and as a result the logical site to relocate to was Central Coast Airport. Nighthawk Aviation CEO commenced negotiations with Council almost two years ago to lease ten hectares to establish a helicopter pilot training facility and maintenance and support facility. Negotiations stalled with the impending Local Government Elections in September and an urgent motion was put before council at its first meeting in November. Council was made aware of the urgent nature of securing the lease with Nighthawk. However after lengthy discussions involving Labor and Independent councillors who wanted to defer negotiations pending a public tender and no decision being made before the airport masterplan was adopted. Finally that motion was defeated with the Liberal/Team Central Coast councillors voting 8 to Labor and Independent 7 votes and the CEO David Farmer, authorised as a matter of urgency to negotiate an aviation services lease for a helicopter hub over part of the Central Coast Airport at Warnervale. Meanwhile negotiations with Council staff dragged on. It appears the CEO delegated the negotiations to staff who obviously have no commercial understanding of the real world. At the same time Mr Kennedy was holding meetings councils planning staff who indicated that it could take up to two years to get the DA approved. In the end Nighthawk Aviation has advised that it will relocate to Essendon. Mr Kennedy told CCBR that with their expansion to Warnervale he would ultimately have employed around forty people. THE AUSTRALIAN TRAVELER magazine has listed its Top 100 Australian Getaways for 2025 with The Bells at Killcare and Pretty Beach House being listed #1 and #2 out of nine Luxury Stays in Australia. That honour was in April and in late May The Bells at Killcare were named in The Gourmet Hotel Guide’s as one of fifteen Best Hotels in NSW and ACT. Owned and operated by Karina and Brian Barry, The Bells at Killcare and Pretty Beach House were bought from adman John Singleton in 2016. Their knowledge and understanding of regional tourism goes back to their days in the Hunter Valley. Karina Barry completed her training at The Regent of Sydney, the Savoy in London and the iconic Rockpool Restaurant, prior to moving to the Hunter Valley in 1991 as owner operator of The Hunter Resort with her brother. She was also one of the founders of the Bluetongue Brewery, (along with husband Brian Barry and a group of Hunter businessmen). Brian Barry spent most of his career in sales and marketing within the wine industry, working with Brown Brothers, McWilliams and Orlando Wyndham. In 1998 he joined Karina’s family business to establish the Hunter Valley Wine School and run the wine side of the business. Their vision is to continually develop Bells at Killcare as a leading world class destination that is a true retreat, Commenting on the recognition of their properties Mrs Barry said, “This recognition is a true testament to the dedicated teams behind each property, who consistently deliver exceptional experiences with heart, soul, and genuine hospitality.” “To be acknowledged alongside so many outstanding destinations is a real honour—and a reminder of just how special our little pocket of paradise on the Bouddi Peninsula is.” NEW PATIENTS Comprehensive checkup & clean Includes up to 5 x-rays No Gap (with health insurance) or $290 OFFERS (all patients) Free orthodontic consultation Free dental implant consultation Free cosmetic makeover consultation FINANCE We bulk bill the Medicare CDBS Zip Pay & Zip Money payment plans We partner with SuperCare General Dentistry | Emergency Care | Cosmetic Dentistry Orthodontics & Invisalign | Sleep Dentistry IV Sedation | Oral Surgery Wisdom Teeth Removal | Dental Implants | 3D CT Scanning 02 4323 1933 | www.vcdental.com.au Suite 10, 36-40 Victoria Street, East Gosford NSW 2250 OPEN 7 DAYS 40 YEARS LOCAL T: 4382 8600 Call us to book your function BUSINESS NEWS Pretty Beach House and Bells at Killcare named Australia’s Top Luxury Getaways Pretty Beach House and The Bells at Killcare owners Karina and Brian Barry Coast loses major operator for Warnervale airport CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
12 BUSINESS NEWS THIRTY MEMBERS OF Central Coast industry Connect visited Elecbrakes facility at Lisarow in late May hearing how Managing Director Craig de Leon transformed braking technology that is revolutionising the towing industry. The Elecbrakes story started in 2012 with Craig de Leon inventing a pioneering Brake Controller called the “Brake Commander “after recognising a need to have the flexibility in not having a controller mounted in a car. This invention and innovation was all done in his garage at home In 2016 Elecbrakes Pty Ltd was established and the first Elecbrakes controller was launched in November. As the product became known, production increased and as a consequence the business moved to its first manufacturing facility in Tuggerah in 2019 employing 8 team members. Sales were at this stage all online and in 2021 the product is taken up by Autobarn as a retail product. It quickly became popular with the product being stocked by other auto retailers. The Tuggerah facility was quickly outgrown and in 2022 following the incredible success of the company the business relocated to Lisarow where today the business employees 40 team members across production, engineering, marketing and sales. Along the way Elecbrakes scored a number of awards including three awards in the Hunter Manufacturing Awards • 2021 – Excellence in Manufacturing Capability Award • 2022 - Excellence in Manufacturing Capability Award • 2023 - Craig de Leon won the Manufacturing Leader Award. Innovation continues to be the main game for Elecbrakes with improved versions of their brake controller, integration into car systems such as Apple Car Play and Android , new elecConnect adaptor for easy connection of the system between the car and trailer and vehicle mounted brake controllers. After the presentations a tour of the manufacturing facility took place where a range of technologies from CNC machining to injection moulding was witnessed together with some of the manual systems still in place where technologies are yet to be put in place. Executive Director Frank Sammut said, “ The elecbrakes journey is one that shows having an innovative idea and taking a risk can lead to great success. Investment in Research and development is a critical element in maximising technological benefits to products and consumers. Craig and his team’s work is testament to this. Again, Central Coast Manufacturing shows its innovative capability and strength through manufacturers like Elecbrakes CCIC members hear Elecbrakes innovation journey WHY BUSINESS OWNERS ON THE CENTRAL COAST CHOOSE CCBR TO GROW THEIR BUSINESS ✓ They can reach over 20,000 business readers every month. ✓ Most widely read and trusted business publication on the Central Coast. ✓ The repetition of your ad every month means readers will get to know you and remember you. ✓ Independent surveys show 94% of readers will use the CCBR for reference when looking for suppliers. ✓ The quality of the publication and the content means readers retain the CCBR for future reference. It’s simple. Call Edgar Adams now on 0404 472 571 or Email: edgaradams@ccbusinessreview.com.au CCIC members at Elecbrakes factory at Lisarow Craig de Leon explaining the Elecbrakes journey and plans for the future CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
13 GOSFORD ERINA BUSINESS Chamber (GEBC) is calling for the restoration of the Central Coast Development Corporation saying that the Central Coast is on the cusp of a transformative era, with Gosford poised to be the Capital of the Central Coast. The Central Coast Development Corporation was set up over 30 years ago as the Festival Development Corporation with the brief to redevelop Mount Penang Parklands precinct on the former Juvenile Justice Centre land that comprises more than 130 hectares. It was amalgamated with the Hunter Development Corporation (HCCDC) in 2000 without any community consultation in October 2018 with head office in Newcastle. It is responsible to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces. In June 24 Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart handed control of the Gosford Waterfront Revitalisation to the (HCCDC) giving it the responsibility to deliver the project. Nothing has been heard from the HCCDC since and likewise the Gosford Waterfront redevelopment has been left in limbo. “A Central Coast Development Corporation would be a game-changer,” said GEBC President Peter Lawley. “It would give us the tools to shape a future that reflects our community’s vision and unlocks the Coast’s full potential.” “ It would provide the leadership, focus, and community-centric approach needed to seize this moment. By uniting local stakeholders, attracting investment, and delivering transformative projects across the region. CHAMBER NEWS Headquartered on the Central Coast, a CCDC would be staffed by professionals who understand the region’s social fabric, environmental assets, and economic priorities. The economic benefits of a CCDC extend far beyond the waterfront. With the Central Coast’s population projected to surpass 360,000 by 2036, the region is poised for significant growth, particularly in highdemand sectors like education, healthcare, and technology. Time to restore Central Coast Development Corporation (CCDC) Image of proposed Gosford Waterfront redevelopment prepared by Central Coast Council Chamber continues to advocate for new TAFE The Gosford Erina Business Chamber wants action on the plan to move Gosford TAFE into the proposed Mann St education precinct at the southern end of Gosford. It was part of a plan to bookend Gosford with two education precincts: it has started with the university now being built at the northern entrance to the CBD. The plan includes the State Government paying Council for the former council chambers in Mann St and that payment is still outstanding. “The concept of an education precinct in Gosford extends far beyond bricks and mortar,” Lawley said. “It represents a vision for an interconnected hub where education, culture and commerce thrive. “The redevelopment of the former Gosford Council Chambers for cultural and commercial use, as well as the inclusion of affordable housing, highlights the potential of this precinct to create a vibrant, dynamic community.” The Chamber says strong advocacy is needed from local leaders, community groups and businesses. “Stakeholders must push for transparency in budget allocations and demand that the redevelopment of Gosford TAFE be treated as a priority,” Lawley said. In 2021, Landcom proposed a new TAFE campus in the heart of Gosford on the former Gosford Council site with the goal of replacing the existing, aging campus and redeveloping the old site for affordable housing. This proposal aimed to revitalize the Gosford CBD, free up land for redevelopment, and potentially expand TAFE NSW course offerings. The project was envisioned to cost over $100 million and integrate the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music with the new TAFE campus, providing them with a permanent home. Funding for the new TAFE would be largely offset by the sale of the old TAFE site. Tony Mylan appointed Director Gosford Erina Business Chamber Tony Mylan, CEO of ET Australia Training College has been appointed Director of Gosford Erina Business Chamber. Mr Mylan has been CEO of ET Australia since 1994 and has extensive experience in employment training and recruitment and vocational education. Based in the Gosford CBD for over twenty years ET Australia operates two campuses, Parkside in Donnison Street Gosford and a Secondary College in the Imperial Centre. Commenting on his appointment Chamber President Peter Lawley, said, “Tony’s extensive knowledge in the secondary education sector over a life time and ET Australia being a significant and respected education provider in Gosford will assist the Chamber in promoting Gosford as an Education Precinct.” CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
14 OB I T IARY FOUNDER AND LONG TIME CEO of Coast Shelter, Laurie Maher, died on 4th May 2025. Born on 20th July 1938 he moved to the Central Coast with his family having been appointed Superintendent of the Mount Penang Training School for Boys at Kariong in 1970. From an early age he had a desire to be a priest, the Catholic faith was his guiding light. However, his life took a turn when he met Helen, his wife to be, and became a teacher working with troubled youth. As his daughter Karen said, “his faith was not just a part of his life. it was the very foundation of it.” At Mount Penang, historically known for its harsh disciplinary regime, he changed the style of management with the aim of reforming those who had fallen through the cracks and helping get them back into mainstream life. He opened the extensive property up to the local community and encouraged people to become involved in its activities. A passionate rugby union player and supporter he established the Kariong Rugby Club with players from the local community and the ‘boys home’ joining the local competition. He was club President for many years. He was also President of NSW Country Rugby Union and was made life member of NSW Rugby Union where he also served as President. With close friend Gavin Shepphard, from his rugby days, he founded Coast Shelter a non-profit service for the homeless in 1992 offering refuge for women and youth as well as serving free meals in Kibble Park Gosford once per week. Coast Shelter would become the region’s leading provider of refuges for men, women and youth from Norah Head to Umina Beach. Over the years Coast Shelter would help thousands of people in desperate need of help. In 2000, with the support of the Central Coast Leagues Club he established a restaurant to feed the homeless in one of their properties in Donnison Street, Gosford staffed with volunteers feeding those in need. Subsequently this was moved into Coast Shelter’s Coast Community Centre in Mann Street where their kitchen prepares and serves thousands of meals every year. He held the position of CEO until his retirement in 2018. He was Director of the Central Coast Leagues Club for more than 20 years and Treasurer for five years and was a Director of the NRMA for five years. In 2004 Laurie Maher was elected to Gosford City Council and was Mayor from 2007 until 2012. It was during his term as Mayor that Gosford Council introduced the first plans for the revitalisation of the Gosford waterfront with the Gosford Challenge project the goal being to realise Gosford’s potential as a world class waterfront city. The final Gosford City Centre Master Plan, ‘Our City, Our Destiny’, was developed with the community over a 24-month period including a six-day intensive design workshop involving all stakeholders. In 2010 he received the Order of Australia Award for his services to the community. He also received the inaugural Darkinjung Medal for his work with Aboriginal youth. A tireless crusader against homelessness and domestic violence he was named one of the Central Coast’s Most Influential persons in 2018. Laurie Maher devoted most of his life to raising the issue of homelessness to public awareness and to taking practical steps to help people. He is survived by his wife Helen daughters, Cathy, Mary and Karen and sons Paul, David and John and grandchildren. Vale Laurie Maher OAM 20 July 1938 - 4 May 2025 CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
15 PROPERTY NEWS CENTRAL COAST LEGACY has sold its Gosford waterfront site at 51-57 & 59 Masons Parade, Point Frederick for a record breaking price reported to be around $18 million, with new owners planning an iconic residential development. The 11,033sqm site zoned B4 Mixed-Use has been occupied by Legacy since 1951. Agents Hillier Property negotiated the sale. The property had been on the market for about six months with several wellknown developers looking to buy it. However, Central Coast Legacy CEO Peter Lawley told CCBR that the buyer, Legacy Views Pty Ltd made an offer with no conditions and immediate settlement. Top price for Legacy’s Gosford waterfront site About one hectare of the total site area of 5.735 hectares, 17.4% of the site, is being conserved for environmental protection and managed under a Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP). The BMP aims to maintain the heritage value of the listed Scribbly Gums and to regenerate mapped Swift Parrot habitat. It incorporates best practices in bushland restoration, management of invasive species and revegetation in order to achieve the plan’s objectives within five years. Conciliation was ultimately terminated and the matter listed for hearing. But the parties continued to negotiate in relation to the form of the development and appropriate conditions of consent resulting in amendments made to the DA in December 2024 addressing Council’s concerns. The parties ultimately reached an agreement based on the amended plans and documents. “As the presiding Commissioner, I am satisfied that the decision is one that the court could have made in the proper exercise of its functions,” Dickson said. Dickson said Transport for NSW (TfNSW) had approved construction of vehicular access to Central Coast Hwy. She was also satisfied that the development was not likely to have a serious and irreversible impact on biodiversity values and that proposed signage was within acceptable parameters. “The proposed identification signage will be compatible with the existing and desired future character of the Kariong locality and in particular the Mount Penang Parklands area … and is consistent with the particular commercial theme for outdoor advertising in this area,” the judgement said. Dickson said signage would not obscure or compromise any important views, nor dominate the skyline. Opponents of the development had expressed concerns regarding traffic and environmental impacts of the development and the proximity of fast-food outlets to nearby schools Fast food restaurants are the milk bars of today’s society and it is expected that they will collectively employ 180 local staff once trading commences. A similar number of jobs will be created during construction. Big win for Stevens and Brand Group as L&E Court approves Kariong development CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 Editor’s Note: Established in 1913 as Gosford Farm Home for Boys the 280 Hectare site eventually became the Mount Penang Training School for Boys. During that time the entire area was run as a dairy farm. In 2003 the area was taken over by the Festival Development Corporation (subsequently becoming the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation). A new Detention was built at the rear of the site, Kariong High School was built on the site, and the remaining area became known Mount Penang Gardens. From 1997 for twenty-three years the Australian Springtime Flora Festival was held on the site attracting thousands of visitors each year. At the time there were no scribbly gum trees or swift parrots as the entire area was grassed and regularly mowed. Prior to that cattle grazed the area for over a hundred years. CONTINUED ARTICLES CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
16 PROPERTY healthhubs.com.au The new Gosford Health Hub will transform healthcare delivery in the Central Coast region ◦ Prime Location: High-exposure site, located within the Central Coast Health District ◦ Adjacent to the Gosford Hospital and Train Station ◦ Purpose built class 9A facility for health and medical use ◦ Dedicated ambulance bay ◦ Abundant onsite basement parking ◦ Flexible tenancy options ◦ Experienced delivery partner providing end to end turnkey solutions 60 - 64 Showground Road Gosford NSW 2250 Scan Here A local developer has purchased a former car yard site at 356 Mann Street, Gosford prior to auction paying $1.88 million (GST not applicable). Located on the fringe of Gosford CBD the 1,474sqm site with 650sqm building area comprising 3 existing tenancies on month by month lease terms providing multiple income streams. Mixed Use Zoning Floor Space Ratio of 2.75 : 1 allows this property to turn into a future development site. Zoning permits up to 18m2 high (STCA) Brad Rogers from RWC Central Coast negotiated the sale. Sydney investor buys Avoca retail A Sydney investor has paid $1,483,000 for a strata lot at 1/179 Avoca Drive, Avoca Beach. The property is leased to two tenants Waves Cafe and Avoca Beach Post Office at an annual net rent of $83,076 per annum providing an annual return of 5.6%. Ben Purdue from LJ Hooker Commercial negotiated the sale. Investor buys Berkeley Vale industrial takeaway A local investor has paid $300,000 (GST not applicable) for Unit 8 at 7 Apprentice Drive, Berkeley Vale. Operated as a take away business the 80sqm shop/cafe is leased to long term tenants with fresh lease until 2027 with 3 year option at a rental of $17,500 per annum plus Outgoings. Ty Blanch and Brett Dowling from Knight Frank Central Coast negotiated that sale. North Gosford development site with income stream sold CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW JUNE 2025
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